The Lagos State Task Force has arrested and charged 12 suspected land grabbers accused of terrorising residents along NERDC Road in Alausa, Ikeja.
In a statement on Thursday, task force spokesperson Gbadeyan Abdulraheem said the suspects were apprehended after multiple complaints of harassment and intimidation from lawful occupants.
“The task force arrested and prosecuted 12 suspected land grabbers who were reportedly preventing residents from carrying out their legitimate activities,” Abdulraheem stated.
He revealed that the suspects allegedly assaulted Mr Ashafa of Prestige Hotel, Ikeja, and arrived at the scene armed with dangerous weapons.
The accused pleaded not guilty and were granted bail of N500,000 each, with two sureties per suspect.
“One surety must be a civil servant not below Level 14, while the second must be a relation, clergy, or community leader,” Abdulraheem added.
The court adjourned the case to 26 March 2025 for further proceedings.
Reacting to the case, Task Force Chairman CSP Adetayo Akerele reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to eradicating land grabbing in Lagos.
“We will not stand by while Lagosians are cheated out of their land and properties,” Akerele warned.
He stressed that unchecked land grabbing could hinder development and deprive hardworking citizens of their property.
Akerele, who personally led the operation, assured residents that the state government remains dedicated to protecting their property rights.